Removal instructions for the StandartInitiator adware-type application
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What kind of application is StandartInitiator?
StandartInitiator is an adware-type application that we discovered while investigating new submissions to the VirusTotal website. This piece of advertising-supported software is part of the AdLoad malware family. StandartInitiator is designed to run intrusive advertisement campaigns by feeding users with unwanted and deceptive ads.
StandartInitiator adware overview
Adware displays adverts on various interfaces, such as visited webpages, desktops, and others. Certain conditions may be necessary for this software to deliver advertisements, e.g., compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to specific sites, etc. However, even if StandartInitiator does not run intrusive ad campaigns – its presence on a system endangers device integrity and user safety.
Adware-displayed ads primarily endorse online scams, untrustworthy/hazardous software, and even malware. Once clicked on, some of the adverts are capable of performing downloads/installations without user consent.
It is worth noting that while legitimate content may be encountered through these ads – they are unlikely to be promoted in this fashion by any official parties. It is most probable that this endorsement is undertaken by scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs in order to obtain illegitimate commissions.
AdLoad applications commonly have browser-hijacking abilities, although we did not observe any of these functionalities while testing StandartInitiator.
Advertising-supported software usually collects private information, and this might apply to the StandartInitiator app. Targeted data can include: visited URLs, viewed webpages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The collected information can then be sold to third-parties or otherwise abused for profit.
To summarize, software like StandartInitiator may cause system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by StandartInitiator |
| Threat Type | Adware, Mac malware, Mac virus |
| Detection Names | Avast (MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.AdLoad.8), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h), Full List (VirusTotal) |
| Additional Information | This application belongs to Adload malware family. |
| Symptoms | Your Mac becomes slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you are redirected to dubious websites. |
| Distribution methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads. |
| Damage | Internet browser tracking (potential privacy issues), display of unwanted ads, redirects to dubious websites, loss of private information. |
| Malware Removal (Mac) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your Mac with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Adware examples
MotionOptimizer, VantageGains, ZestyPeak, GrowSupport, and HubComputing are merely some examples of adware-type applications we have analyzed recently.
Advertising-supported software typically appears legitimate and innocuous. Users are lured into downloading/installing apps or browser extensions within this classification by promises of various useful features. However, the functions are rarely operational.
Keep in mind that even if a piece of software works as indicated by its promotional material – that is not definitive proof of either legitimacy or safety.
How did StandartInitiator install on my computer?
Adware can be bundled with regular programs. The risk of inadvertently permitting access for bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and by rushing through installation processes (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Quick" settings, etc.).
Intrusive advertisements spread adware as well. Some of the adverts can be triggered (i.e., by being clicked) to perform stealthy downloads/installations.
Furthermore, advertising-supported software can have "official" promotional pages, and it is endorsed on scam websites. Users primarily enter such webpages via redirects caused by sites employing rogue advertising networks, misspelled URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly recommend researching software and downloading only from official/trustworthy sources. Installation processes must be treated with care, e.g., by reading terms, exploring available options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, and so on.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears genuine and harmless. For example, while intrusive adverts may look ordinary and innocuous – they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).
In case of continuous encounters with ads and/or redirects of this type, check the system and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with StandartInitiator, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for macOS to automatically eliminate this adware.
Pop-up window displayed once StandartInitiator adware's installation is over:
StandartInitiator adware's installation folder:
Instant automatic Mac malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of Mac malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner for Mac
By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. Limited seven days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.
Quick menu:
- What is StandartInitiator?
- STEP 1. Remove StandartInitiator related files and folders from OSX.
- STEP 2. Remove StandartInitiator ads from Safari.
- STEP 3. Remove StandartInitiator adware from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove StandartInitiator ads from Mozilla Firefox.
Video showing how to remove StandartInitiator adware using Combo Cleaner:
StandartInitiator adware removal:
Remove StandartInitiator-related potentially unwanted applications from your "Applications" folder:
Click the Finder icon. In the Finder window, select "Applications". In the applications folder, look for "MPlayerX","NicePlayer", or other suspicious applications and drag them to the Trash.
After removing the potentially unwanted application(s) that cause online ads, scan your Mac for any remaining unwanted components.
Remove adware-related files and folders
Click the Finder icon, from the menu bar. Choose Go, and click Go to Folder...
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: /Library/LaunchAgents/
In the "LaunchAgents" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - "installmac.AppRemoval.plist", "myppes.download.plist", "mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist", "kuklorest.update.plist", etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the exact same string.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/Application Support/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/Application Support/
In the "Application Support" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious folders. For example, "MplayerX" or "NicePlayer", and move these folders to the Trash.
Check for adware generated files in the ~/Library/LaunchAgents/ folder:
In the Go to Folder... bar, type: ~/Library/LaunchAgents/
In the "LaunchAgents" folder, look for any recently-added suspicious files and move them to the Trash. Examples of files generated by adware - "installmac.AppRemoval.plist", "myppes.download.plist", "mykotlerino.ltvbit.plist", "kuklorest.update.plist", etc. Adware commonly installs several files with the exact same string.
Check for adware generated files in the /Library/LaunchDaemons/ folder:
In the "Go to Folder..." bar, type: /Library/LaunchDaemons/
In the "LaunchDaemons" folder, look for recently-added suspicious files. For example "com.aoudad.net-preferences.plist", "com.myppes.net-preferences.plist", "com.kuklorest.net-preferences.plist", "com.avickUpd.plist", etc., and move them to the Trash.
Scan your Mac with Combo Cleaner:
If you have followed all the steps correctly, your Mac should be clean of infections. To ensure your system is not infected, run a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus. Download it HERE. After downloading the file, double click combocleaner.dmg installer. In the opened window, drag and drop the Combo Cleaner icon on top of the Applications icon. Now open your launchpad and click on the Combo Cleaner icon. Wait until Combo Cleaner updates its virus definition database and click the "Start Combo Scan" button.
Combo Cleaner will scan your Mac for malware infections. If the antivirus scan displays "no threats found" - this means that you can continue with the removal guide; otherwise, it's recommended to remove any found infections before continuing.
After removing files and folders generated by the adware, continue to remove rogue extensions from your Internet browsers.
Remove malicious extensions from Internet browsers
Remove malicious Safari extensions:
Open the Safari browser, from the menu bar, select "Safari" and click "Preferences...".
In the preferences window, select "Extensions" and look for any recently-installed suspicious extensions. When located, click the "Uninstall" button next to it/them. Note that you can safely uninstall all extensions from your Safari browser - none are crucial for regular browser operation.
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Safari.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the Chrome menu icon 
(at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More Tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Google Chrome.
Remove malicious extensions from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu 
(at the top right corner of the main window) and select "Add-ons and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".
- If you continue to have problems with browser redirects and unwanted advertisements - Reset Mozilla Firefox.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What harm can adware cause?
Adware displays advertisements that promote content capable of causing severe issues (e.g., system infections, financial losses, etc.). Advertising-supported software can decrease browsing quality and system performance. It is also considered to be a privacy threat, as adware usually has data-tracking abilities.
What does adware do?
Adware is designed to deliver intrusive ad campaigns. It can display advertisements on various interfaces. Additionally, some adware-types can generate redirects and collect sensitive data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware generates revenue mainly through affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, applications, browser extensions, products, services, and other content. The developers may earn commission from ad clicks, site visits, file downloads, product purchases, service subscriptions, or similar.
Will Combo Cleaner remove StandartInitiator adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate all the adware-type apps installed. Note that manual removal (unaided by security programs) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, various remnants (files) can stay hidden within the system even after the adware has been manually removed. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate advertising-supported software thoroughly.
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